La Joya Balangan Resort

Like many properties in southern Bali, this humble, compact resort is nestled into the hillside overlooking the ocean and makes good use of its natural surroundings. Its buildings are crafted from natural materials, such as local limestone and traditional alang-alang grass for thatched roofs. Natural stones are used as pathways and walls throughout the property, and stone sculptures and art installations add a welcome dash of style. The expansive gardens are lush and green, and ponds are peppered throughout the grounds. The hotel feels secluded -- except when tourists come to view the sunsets -- and the style throughout is a pleasantly modern take on rustic style (though not exactly the definition of rustic-chic). And yes, the off-the-beaten-path location means there's roosters crowing on neighboring properties and  plenty of stray cats that visit. The hotel is popular with couples and families, and especially draws surfers -- the beach here is a well-known surfing destination. 

This property is situated on Balangan Beach on Bali's Bukit Peninsula. It's a 20-minute drive through winding village roads from the main Bukit highway -- but the road is well-maintained and the hotel is easy enough to find. The hotel has its own private access to the beach, which is a two-minute walk down a flight of stone steps from the grounds. There are few restaurants and shops in the Balangan area, so most guests who stay here are seeking seclusion and are happy to just hang out on the beach or by the pool. It's at least 30 minutes away to any tourist attractions, including the Uluwatu Temple, and restaurants or nightlife. Those looking for the wilder side of Bali will need to make the 45-minute drive into Kuta. Ngurah Rai International Airport is about 40 minutes away by car, just outside of Kuta.

The 22 rooms at La Joya, Villa & Bunglows include 15 bungalows, six rooms, and a six-room Private Villa called the Villa Gajah, which is next to the property and sleeps up to eight people. Inspired by local seashells, bungalows are round and crafted of local white limestone, with thatched roofs made of traditional alang-alang grass. Curving glass doors open to the small furnished decks, with lush plantings and flowers all around. Decor is on the rustic side, with stone floors and walls, wood furnishings, and local art, sculpture, and carvings. Mosquito netting hangs from the beds. Regardless of category, nearly all have a similar style, though the Villa Gajah looks a bit more polished, despite its thatched roof and tree-trunk pillars. All rooms include minibars, safes, air-conditioning, and free Wi-F, though they lack ceiling fans. Bathrooms are on the small side, with open showers. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided. Keep in mind that this hotel's rural location means that typical sounds of the countryside -- like roosters at neighboring properties -- will be a noise factor in the mornings.

Guests can start their day with fresh breads and pastries served in La Joya restaurant, while taking in views of the Indian Ocean from the open-air space -- the meal is included in room rates and also features hot dishes like eggs and other Western items. Local dishes and international cuisine are served in the restaurant for dinner, and it's especially lovely with the stars twinkling overhead. One of two on-site pools, the pool by the restaurant is particularly beautiful as it overlooks the ocean. It's surrounded by palapas, daybeds, lounge chairs, umbrellas, and tropical trees. The second pool is suitable for children, and a volleyball net, trampoline, and bocce ball area are adjacent. Cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas are lined up on the wide, sandy beach, which is just a couple minutes down a private path from the hotel. The hotel's spa offers massages, and yoga classes are held daily. The staff will help guests book motorbike and car rentals, tours with English-speaking guides, surfing lessons, and cooking classes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.